Selecting a dog breed - part 1

As promised in my first article about considerations selecting a dog, I will be writing a few articles about different breeds and explaining my initial interest in that breed. I would appreciate input from readers on my view point. Some of the breeds, I have owned or been around them quite a bit. Others are solely based on research or recommendations from friends. Let’s plunge off into the deep water and select a canine family member!

Irish Setter

Photo by bri-1970

Why would I consider purchasing an Irish Setter puppy? When I was about 13 or 14 years old, my Aunt Susie gave us a grown Irish Setter. I will never forget how beautiful he was running in the pasture behind our house. When I hear the phase, “grace in motion”, the Irish Setter comes to mind. Unfortunately, he was not much more and we did not keep him very long. I also recall that he chased our chickens which did not set well with my Mother. He was not that bright and uninterested in learning anything. Even today, many people think that they have been breed for beauty and not for intelligence or hunting ability.

Brief description: The Irish Setter is an active, aristocratic mahogany red bird dog, substantial yet elegant in build. Standing over two feet tall at the shoulder, the dog has a straight fine and glossy coat. Afield he is a swift moving hunter; at home he is a sweet natured companion and very loyal. He can easily become a one person dog.

Positives:

One of the most beautiful dogs in the World.
Very loyal companions.
Friendly and outgoing.

Negatives:

Daily grooming of their coat.
Some experience hip dysplasia.
Require lots of exercise if they do not have a large yard.

Collie

Photo by Leo-Avalon

Why would I consider purchasing a Collie? Once again a dog from my past is part of my consideration of a Collie. My cousin had a rough coated Collie and he was a great dog. He was with us on our childhood adventures for many years. I can still remember how watchful and protective he was. We never doubted that he would protect us from any potential enemy, people or animal.

Brief Description: The Collie is an intelligent, strong, responsive, and active dog which stands naturally straight and firm. They have deep and moderately wide chest which shows it’s strength. It’s face shows high intelligence and quiet confidence A Collie presents a proud picture of balance, no part of his body is out of proportion. In summary a Collie is a beautiful herding dog that makes a wonderful companion.

Positives:

Very loyal and protective companion.
Very intelligent and capable of learning almost any task.
The breed comes in many different sizes and styles (rough, smooth, miniature, etc.).
Generally healthy if purchased from a reputable breeder.

Negatives:

Some may have a problem with temperatures in the South.
Very popular, so be sure to buy from a reputable breeder. Many dogs are out there that have health and genetic problems.

Airedale Terrier

Photo by WaechorWhy would I consider purchasing an Airedale? My consideration for this breed is based on research of the various breeds of dogs from books and watching dog shows. I have never been around an Airedale and probably have only seen one or two. From my research they seem like one of the most versatile breeds. It has been said by many owners that an Airedale can do anything that your dog can do, but do it better. Obviously, that is a huge boast and probably overstated in most cases. However, it shows how intelligent and courageous an Airedale is.

Brief Description: The head should be well balanced with little difference between the length of skull and fore face. The eyes should be dark, small and full of terrier expression, keenness, and intelligence. The dogs should measure approximately 23 inches at the shoulder; females slightly less. Movement should be free and quick.

Positives: